White Gold vs Silver
White gold and silver are both popular precious metals used in jewelry. Looking at them up front, they share a lot of similarities. They’re both light, bright metals that pair easily with just about anything. But when it comes to their durability, how they wear over time, and their inherent value, they’re actually pretty different. If you’re choosing between the two for a piece of jewelry you’ll wear often, it’s worth knowing what sets them apart.
In this guide, we’ll break down how white gold and silver compare in terms of durability, price, maintenance, and more, so you can make the call that makes the most sense for you.
What Is White Gold?
White gold is an alloy, meaning it’s made by mixing pure yellow gold with other white metals—usually nickel, palladium, or zinc. By itself, white gold is naturally white, but because it has the yellow undertones from the yellow gold in it, it can have a warm hue.
It’s for this reason why most white gold pieces are coated with a thin layer of rhodium, which is a rare, white metal from the platinum family. The rhodium plating is what gives white gold pieces that bright, shiny, almost mirror-like finish; at the same time, it adds a layer to protect the underlying white gold from scratches and nicks.
Note that the rhodium plating on white gold doesn’t last forever. It wears down with use. It is easy to replate when needed, though; a fresh coat brings back the shine.
You’ll mostly see white gold in 14K or 18K, which tells you how much pure gold is in the mix. 14K has about 58% gold, while 18K has 75%. With pure gold being naturally yellow, the higher the gold content, the softer and slightly warmer the white gold alloy tends to be.
Since pure gold is soft, lower karats are more durable and are suitable for pieces that are meant for everyday wear
Key Differences between White Gold & Silver
Even with their similar looks, white gold and silver aren’t the same. Here are the key differences to keep in mind:
Aesthetics and Color
White gold is rhodium-plated, which gives it a bright, mirror like finish. Underneath that plating, the underlying base metal has more of a warmer tone. Note, that unless the piece has experienced wear and hasn’t been replated, it’s unlikely you’ll see the underlying metal.
Silver has more of a soft, cool white with a gentle luster. It’s not quite as reflective as white gold, but nonetheless still has a clean look.
Durability
White gold is hands down the more durable option of the two. It’s more scratch-resistant and holds its shape better (especially in 14K).
Silver is softer than white gold. It can dent, scratch, and bend more easily. If you’re planning on getting a piece that you’ll wear regularly, white gold would probably be the better option.
Tarnish and Maintenance
White gold doesn’t tarnish, but its rhodium finish will fade with time. This plating can easily be replaced by a professional jeweler, and is typically done every few years or so.
Silver tarnishes, so to keep its shine, it’ll need to be polished regularly.
Both metals require occasional care, with silver being the one that needs more frequent attention.
Price and Value
White gold is inherently more valuable than silver; a white gold piece will hold its value over time and offers better resale potential.
It’s for this reason that white gold pieces are generally the choice for sentimental or milestone pieces, whereas silver is the choice for dainty or fashion pieces.
Weight
White gold feels heavier and more solid than silver, thanks to its density.
Silver is lighter and often feels more delicate in larger pieces.
How to Tell White Gold from Silver
The easiest way is to check the stamp. Sterling silver is usually marked with “925,” while white gold will say “14K” or “18K.” You can also look at the shine—white gold often looks brighter and more reflective, thanks to the rhodium coating, while silver has a slightly softer, grayer tone.
Weight is another factor that can tell the two apart. White gold feels denser and heavier in your hand. Furthermore, if the piece in question is on the older side, look at how it’s aged—silver tends to tarnish (darken), while white gold may just look a bit less shiny as the plating wears off.
Which Metal Should You Choose?
For pieces that you’re planning on wearing every day, white gold would probably be the better option. It’s durable, doesn’t tarnish, and has a bit more heft to it when worn. With regards to time, it ages well, especially if the rhodium plating is kept up.
For pieces that you’re looking to get on a budget, silver would make more sense. It’s more affordable than white gold, but has a similar look. This makes it a great choice for those pieces you’re just looking to try out, or for pieces that you’re looking to wear occasionally.
When deciding between the two metals for your next piece, the right choice really just depends on what you’re after. Are you looking for something that’s more durable, valuable, and meant to last? Or for something that’s affordable and relatively easy to replace? Both metals have their place in the jewelry box —white gold for longevity and investment, silver for style and flexibility.